Polarus Horn Quartet
I was very fortunate during the pandemic to not be in the position of losing employment fully nor losing a close family member to this disease. But like everyone, I did not come through unscathed. In March 2020, I was working as a nurse in clinical research. Everyone in healthcare was seriously stressed during that time. Literally on the day of the announcement that our healthcare system was "shutting down" to all care but emergencies, I tore my meniscus. I didn't know that at the time, because other than hearing a loud pop and collapsing to the floor, I couldn't get any medical care. Luckily, we were allowed to work from home, so I lay on my couch until I could hobble again. It took 3 months before I could get it imaged, and another month before surgery. So, why turn to art during this time? We were mandated to take two days of vacation days each week to save the company money, so I had extra time, and I was hobbled. The sheer emotions that swirled around the world and our community were incredibly chaotic. I knew I wanted to create, but would the art reflect anger, despair, hurt, or hope?
I am a horn player in two orchestras. While this piece was not "inspired" by the pandemic, it was my response at not being able to play with others. I spent a lot of time learning how to record myself playing all 4 parts in a horn quartet, learning how to "mix" the music, and then finding the appropriate visuals for the final video. It kept me playing my instrument and kept the joy of playing alive for me.
